Month: April 2017
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Overwatch Event – Leaked Skins

Blizzard can’t seem to help their Overwatch event content from being leaked before the actual release. This time around it seems that the skins for some popular heroes have been revealed.

The skins were posted on photo-sharing site, Imgur by user raulrsd. Images of an off screen Xbox One show the likes of Mercy, Reinhardt, Tracer and Torbjorn in new/very blue uniforms.

Source: http://bit.ly/2opSfan

If this leak is real, it would fit in with the recent release of the “Uprising” comic that ends with the same characters on their way to stop a robot revolt on the streets of London. Players will recognize the location they’re heading to as the map ‘Kings Row’.

The comic is intended to herald in the Omnic Uprising event that is scheduled for release tomorrow, April 11th. Director of Overwatch, Jake Kaplan has said that this event won’t be a holiday special but instead one that delves into the lore of the game.

More skins are sure to come along with the event, with Kaplan promising a new Widowmaker legendary skin sometime in the near future the purple assassin is sure to have some new clothes.

Whatever the case may be, Gigamax Games will surely be covering the upcoming event. Keep checking back for more information on this developing story.

Chivalry: Medieval Warfare – Playlist with Gigamax

Chivalry: Medieval Warfare is definitely not for the weak. Interesting mechanics and precision style combat make it difficult to jump right into. Unless a player swings away wildly in every direction with no regard for the well being of teammates. You can decide which the Gigamax crew is made up of with the video below.

In all honesty, it was a fun game delivering some exhilarating moments followed by questions and laughs. Released in 2012, it’s a relatively old game and was worth the revisit. Anyone looking for a fun, simple game to burn some time and test your skills, Chivalry: Medieval Warfare might be the right pick.

Take a look at the video below as Gigs and Mack take their first look into what the game has to offer. It may not be for everyone and it is a bit old, but it could be a good buy. Thank you all so much for stopping by! Hope you enjoy!

Project Scorpio: Console Gaming’s Next Big Step

Microsoft recently claimed that their upcoming console code named “Project Scorpio” is the most powerful console on the planet. A recent report from Digital Foundry seemingly supports this claim by showing off the internal specs of the upcoming hardware.

To start, the console contains 12 GB of RAM, which is currently 50 percent more than both the Xbox One and Playstation 4. The memory being used is GDDR5, the type that is seen in the PS4 now and more powerful than the current Xbox One’s DDR3. The memory bandwidth has also been improved, Project Scorpio’s transfer speed is 326 GB’s which even faster than PS4 Pro’s speed of 218 GB’s.

The new console’s graphical power is contained in a new System on Chip (SoC) deemed the Scorpio Engine. This new chip was designed in conjunction with AMD and contains 40 customized compute units that clock in at 1172 MHz. Scorpio’s GPU is about 4.6 more powerful than the Xbox One’s, which comes out to about 6 teraflops of performance.

MORE POWER

Project Scorpio also contains eight custom x86 CPU cores that clock at 2.3 GHz. This is faster than Xbox One’s eight 1.75 GHz Jaguar cores and almost equal to PS4’s similar cores that run at 2.1 GHz.

Finally, the new console will include a 1 TB hard drive and will support 4K Ultra HD Blu-Rays, which are the same discs Xbox One S can use. This is better than the standard Xbox One, PS4, and PS4 Pro that can only support standard Blu-Ray.

This console sounds amazing and we can’t wait to get our hands on one. Hopefully with Project Scorpio’s ability to run at a consistent 60 FPS and at 4K to boot, this piece of hardware is a console gamers dream. Gigamax will be watching the developments of this console very closely, so don’t forget to keep checking back for more updates.

Building a Gaming PC

The thought of building a gaming computer can be a bit intimidating. Don’t let it be. You control the cost, the pace and now you have a simple guide to follow along with. This will be a simple guide so even non-techies can follow along. You don’t really need to know exactly how it all works to build yourself a monster gaming PC. Now let’s get to it.

1. Choose a Processor (CPU)

This is the brain of the machine. Finding an up-to-date processor is a must with the rapid rate games are advancing. Most modern processors are multi-core, essentially the same as saying multiple processors in one. First time buyers may think the more cores the better in every circumstance, however this isn’t always true. IGN uses a perfect example; Intel’s quad-core CPUs can stand up well when compared to AMD’s 8-core CPUs. So it’ll be important to shop around with a budget in mind and compare the specs, side by side. The last two points to keep in mind is power usage and the type and ease of cooling.

2. CPU Cooler (Thermal Paste needed)

Installing the CPU cooler can be the trickiest step in building the computer. Everything else after is a breeze. You’re going to need some thermal paste. There are most likely instructions that came with the CPU cooler, these will be important to follow. It’s a bit complicated, thermal paste can get everywhere and no one wants that so we included this video below to make this even easier.

3. Can’t Forget a Motherboard

The motherboard allows all the different components of a computer to ‘talk’ to each other. The CPU chosen will determine what kind of motherboard you need. Different processors have different ‘socket’ sizes and will only match up with motherboards that support that socket. Other considerations include how much memory you’ll want, size of the case and how many drives will be installed.

*REMEMBER* Keep the motherboard diagram close at hand, it’ll make finding the required slots for each component much easier for new builders.

This step is crucial to the success of the build so as to ensure all other components are compatible. Checking compatibility can usually be done through the manufacturers website. Most modern motherboards will support a PCI Express slot, this is essential to expanding the capabilities of a computer so be sure at least one is included. Furthermore, make sure the motherboard has at least 4 slots for RAM so it has plenty of room to grow along with the games.

4. RAM (Random Access Memory)

If you don’t have enough RAM, your programs and games will run slowly. However, reaching into the realm of 32 GB, 64 GB of RAM may not make too much of a noticeable difference. So if you’re building on a budget, 16 GB will do you just fine, for now. Again, games are advancing rapidly.

RAM should be in matching pairs. All RAM should be the same speed and it’s best for them to be the same make and model. If you’re going for 16 GB and have 4 slots in the motherboard, four 4 GB sticks should be used. Make sure that if you plan to have over 8 GB of RAM understand that it will require a 64-bit operating system.

5. Hard Drive

This is where all the data will be stored, from the operating system to every program. Make sure to leave enough room in your budget to buy from a trusted manufacturer, nothing ruins a day like a dead hard drive. Solid state drives are a good choice for a powerful gaming PC. They don’t have any moving parts are more reliable and faster. However they’re a bit expensive and space will be limited when compared to traditional hard drives around the same price. To avoid this inconvenience, you can use an external hard drive for less essential files. Again, ensure the hard drive is compatible with the motherboard.

6. Power Supply

Without this, you basically just have a box with a bunch expensive metal and plastic. The power supply will power every component in the computer. Some cases already have a power supply, but not all. Either way, it’s absolutely vital that the power supply offers enough power to charge every component. Don’t go overboard as it will only output the amount of power needed and the wattage listed is its max payload. This is another part that’s worth leaving some budget open for, a faulty power supply can end up damaging everything else. Pick a reliable manufacturer and if you’re really trying to build a powerful gaming PC, it’s recommended to use a separate power supply if one comes with the case (unless it’s a specialized gaming case but be sure to check).

7. Case

This is relatively easy, but can turn disappointing quickly. Make sure the case is compatible with all the components. If a motherboard doesn’t fit, it’s back to the store for a new case unless you want to start hacking away at plastic. Pick something easy on the eyes, or boring, it’s really up to you. Just make sure everything fits well.

8. Graphics Card Time

Locate the PCIe slot on the motherboard, a long slot closest to the CPU socket and just take off the cover plates. Most video cards use a dual-slot design so you’ll need to remove the cover plate directly to the left and the one above it.

Line up the graphics card’s PCIe interface with the slot and press down until it’s attached completely. Re-insert the thumbscrews until it’s firmly locked into place. Hook it up to the power supply and once it’s fully powered it’s ready to bring on those beautiful graphics.

Bam! You just learned how to build a gaming pc. It’ll seem a bit nerve racking, spending a lot of money on something you’re not 100% confident doing. However, local tech stores like Microcenter are more than willing to answer any questions you may have. Asking questions is key when you’re building your first machine. Also, here’s a little cheat sheet which can help with picking components, setting a budget and getting an idea of what kind of computer you can build. Check out https://choosemypc.net/

Yooka-Laylee by Playtonic Games: Review

It is hard to express how much I love Yooka-Laylee but stand by while I give it a go. This platformer is an affordable foray into a beautiful universe with plenty of challenge and collectibles. The $40 price tag offers even more incentive to try it out. Each world provides players with a new experience, all while keeping players entertained with clever dialogue and interesting characters. To top off this nostalgic gut punch, Playtonic Games included a delightful soundtrack that will make Banjo-Kazooie veterans flashback to their N64 days.

To address the elephant in the room, yes Yooka-Laylee does feel nearly identical to Banjo-Kazooie. This is mainly because the developers working at Playtonic Games are industry veterans that were the brains behind the bear and the bird most gamers remember. These similarities are not a bad thing though, in fact they add to the allure of the game. The controls are fluid, Yooka runs and jumps with grace just like Banjo. Jumping from platform to platform feels great and the only thing that ever got in the way was an occasional camera glitch.

Powers and Abilities

Fluidity is essential due to the pallet of skills at your heroes disposal. Throughout the adventure both Yooka and Laylee will learn tons of moves used for moving, flying and fighting their way to victory. From the start players are limited in terms of skills, only having access to run and jump. After a minor introduction, attack is unlocked and the game opens up. Players are then introduced to the move acquisition system. Instead of just being handed moves, a smooth talking snake will trade abilities for quills. Although the price seems steep, quills are in no short supply as they are one of the more prevalent collectables.

Yooka-Laylee is a collect-a-thon that just keeps giving. Players have a constant stream of various quills, pagies, ghost writers, tonics and various other objects necessary for reaching the end of the game. Not all of these items are easy to obtain as many are hidden behind various puzzles and fights which Yooka must take care of first. These puzzles aren’t always easy, some require quick reflexes and clever problem solving. One of the more challenging problems require players to answer a series of 10 questions that are necessary for progression. These questions seem easy at first, but as the list goes on very specific questions are asked, such as “how many hours have you been playing the game.” By the way, these were all asked by a talking duck in a rolling fish tank.

Environments and Characters

The delightful cast of characters is one of the many driving forces Yooka-Laylee uses to keep players attentions. A constant feeling of anticipation is felt when traveling into the many worlds, brought on by new faces and self aware dialogue. The antagonist of the game comes in the form of an arrogant bee known as Capital B. Puns, plays on words and destroying the 4th wall are what the game does best. The snarky dialogue between the two heroes is endearing and while Capital B’s dialogue will never match the wit of Gruntilda (the antagonist from Banjo-Kazooie) he still has some funny lines that take a jab at corporate culture. Characters also make the iconic goofy mumbling noises made famous by Playtonic Games previous franchise.

These characters are spread throughout a variety of gorgeous environments accessed by jumping into magical story books that have been stolen by Capital B. Players start on a busted up pirate ship that Yooka and Laylee call a home and move onto the main hub world known as the Hivory Towers. This is where you’ll find the world bending books, starting with the jungle level, Tribalstack Tropics. Players will move onto various other whimsical areas such as a frozen tundra and a flashy casino. Although there are only 5 zones, they each have two versions that require players to expand the world in order to grab all the collectables. When expanded, the books contain new challenges to take on and introduce more characters to meet.

An arcade like multiplayer is included as well. It lets friends compete against each other in various mini game activities. These are fun diversions from the story but ultimately they feel a little forced but ultimately don’t detract from the excellence that is the campaign.

Overview

Yooka-Laylee is a truly wonderful experience that is a must buy for anyone who enjoyed Banjo-Kazooie or any retro platformer. This indie game is a Kickstarter success story that shows the true power of the platform and independent developers. Hopefully it inspires more small time game developers to go against the grain and develop outside industry norms.

Gigamax Games is dedicated to giving our fans a look at all the latest games and industry updates. Make sure to stay tuned for more early previews and reviews and if you’d like to see some gameplay of Yooka-Laylee make sure to check out our sneak peek let’s play below.

Yooka-Laylee – Early Preview with Gigamax Games

Agents of Mayhem: New Trailer & Release Date

The developer behind the Saints Row series, Volition, released more details and a new trailer for their upcoming game Agents Of Mayhem. They also announced that the game will be released on August 15th in the U.S. and August 18th in Europe.

The new trailer shows off some of the chaotic battles and awesome equipment players can expect to experience. The story surrounds a group of warriors in a distant future where the only ones that can save the government and global corporations is this group of misfits deemed the Agents Of Mayhem. Fans of the Saints Row series will notice a lot of tributes to Volition’s premier title, such as the evil company Ultor Group and the popular symbol/purple color scheme.

The trailer has plenty of nods to The A Team, with the iconic music playing for most of the video. This is probably because the heroes are known to destroy more than they save. Toward the end, Volition makes a tribute to the classic show Knight Rider.

Players will have the opportunity to take control of a group of three heroes and use a variety of different over the top abilities and gadgets to help take down the enemy. The game will be coming out for PS4, Xbox One and PC but when asked about a Switch port, the developer said there were no plans at this time.

Yooka-Laylee Early Access – Preview

The full Yooka-Laylee experience is almost available for everyone and Gigamax wants to give you a sneak peek at this indie game. Our first step into the world of Yooka-Laylee takes us to a few of the worlds at the beginning of the game.

First we give you a look at the hub world which our protagonist Yooka uses to travel in between the gorgeous levels. Starting at the broken pirate ship that the heroes made into their impromptu home, it brings back instant memories Banjo Kazooie. Next we move onto the very green and vibrant Tribalstack Tropics, which is the first level of Yooka Laylee. This world is an awesome introduction and acclimates players to the controls and feel of the game. Finally we move over to Glitterglaze Glacier an inverse to the bright colors that make up the first world. This frozen landscape offers plenty of puzzles and new powers for players to get their hands on and definitely offers a bigger challenge.

Thank you everyone for checking out our early preview of Yooka Laylee! This game as an amazing experience and anyone that is a fan of the classic platformer formula will feel right at home. Remember to keep checking back with Gigamax for more on Yooka Laylee.

Everything – It’s a Big World Out There

Everything was absolutely an Indie game to remember. Not because of an incredible story or mind blowing graphics, but for something else. This game was unlike anything we here at Gigamax have played before. Ambiguous and confusing, but fun all the same. There’s not too many words that describe a game like Everything, but here’s an attempt at a thorough overview.

A game where the player can become ‘everything’, seems like it would deliver a lot of content. This would be accurate in a sense, because of the shear size of the game. However, there are no quests or character development to worry about, growing big and small is enough. The player has the power to become every living and inanimate object in sight.

Before paying the $15 for the game, it’s highly recommended to take a look at the video below. Just to be absolutely sure buyers know what they’re getting into. This is not a game for everyone.